The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced that the comprehensive cost and breakdown of the ongoing Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project will be disclosed to the public on Friday, aiming to address growing concerns and controversies surrounding the project’s finances.
In a statement released by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media, Orji Uchenna, Umahi emphasized the ministry’s commitment to transparency, prudence, and quality delivery despite challenges such as commodity price inflation and supply chain disruptions in the construction industry.
The assurance comes amidst recent debates over the project’s costs and bidding processes, with former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar questioning the decision to award the contract without competitive bidding. Atiku also raised concerns about the allocation of public funds for the project, urging transparency in disclosing the full cost.
Responding to the criticisms during an inspection visit to the ongoing rehabilitation of the Enugu-Port Harcourt dual carriageway, Minister Umahi dismissed the allegations as a misrepresentation of facts, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to prudently managing project costs while ensuring quality infrastructure development.
Umahi pledged to provide a detailed breakdown of the project’s expenses during a press conference scheduled for his visit to Lagos from April 10 to April 12, 2024. He also highlighted the economic significance of the coastal highway, emphasizing its role in enhancing connectivity and promoting national development across regions.
Furthermore, Minister Umahi commended the progress and quality of work on various infrastructure projects visited during the inspection, urging contractors to adhere to project timelines to expedite project completion.